Mental Health Considerations Before Undergoing Cosmetic Surgery
It’s no secret that mental health can profoundly affect people’s physical appearance. Whether it’s the stress of everyday life taking its toll on your skin, or more serious conditions, like anorexia and bulimia causing drastic weight loss, the mind and body are inextricably linked.
But what about when people make the decision to go under the knife for cosmetic reasons? Is there a risk that you could be exacerbating existing mental health issues or even creating new ones?
There is a complex relationship between mental health and plastic surgery. Readers should consider the risks involved in undergoing cosmetic procedures and how mental health can influence our decision to go under the knife in the first place. Please consult your mental health professional before making any decision to change your body via surgery.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and Plastic Surgery
Body dysmorphia disorder and plastic surgery are one of the most common mental health issues that can affect one’s decision to seek out cosmetic procedures. This condition is characterized by obsessive preoccupation with one’s appearance, usually focusing on perceived physical flaws or defects. As a result, sufferers may partake in extreme behaviors, such as excessive grooming, compulsive mirror checking and even unnecessary surgeries, in an attempt to “fix” these flaws and achieve a more desirable appearance.
The Social Pressures of Modern Life
Another factor that can influence your decision to undergo plastic surgery is the highly visible nature of social media today. While platforms like Instagram enable people to showcase their best selves to the world, they also encourage people to compare themselves unfavorably to others, leading many people to develop unrealistic expectations of their own appearances. This can be a major contributing factor for people to decide to undergo cosmetic procedures. Make sure to check your perceptions with a mental health professional and trusted friends or family before you make any drastic decisions. Many of us tell ourselves things that simply are not true, so ensure that you get a reality check before you do anything that can cause permanent changes or changes that you might regret later.
The Risks Involved with Plastic Surgery and Mental Health
As with any major medical procedure, you must consider the risks associated with plastic surgery before moving forward with any treatment plan. Some of these risks include:
General Anesthesia
While this option is generally considered safe for most patients, some individuals may have pre-existing conditions (such as heart or lung disease) that could make them more susceptible to complications from anesthesia.
Psychological Issues
As mentioned above, some individuals may develop mental health conditions in response to the stress and pressure that can result from undergoing a major cosmetic procedure.
Infection
Though relatively rare, infection is one risk associated with any type of surgery, including plastic surgery. Take care in medical settings and ensure that caution is taken in your care. You must be your own advocate in this, as well as in most situations in life.
Scarring/Unfavorable Results
While most patients are satisfied with the outcome of their surgery, there is always a chance that they will not be happy with their new look. This can lead to increased stress or anxiety and exacerbate pre-existing mental health issues.
Final Thoughts
Mental health and plastic surgery are deeply intertwined. While cosmetic procedures have been shown to have many positive benefits for people’s physical appearance, you would be well-advised to consider the potential risks involved before deciding to undergo any type of treatment.
If you are considering plastic surgery, be sure to speak with your doctor about any pre-existing mental health conditions you may have and any concerns you may have about the procedure itself. Get references from others before choosing a surgeon. Check doctors’ track records and whether any complaints have been filed against them, and whether they are members in good standing to the appropriate licensing authorities and boards. Taking these precautions can help ensure that you have a positive experience with your surgery and avoid any potential complications. You, of course, have the right to do whatever makes you feel good, as long as it does not hurt others. Just be cautious about anything irreversible or that could negatively affect you in the longer run.
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This article originally appeared on Marialeonardolsen.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org
